This excellently recorded album showcases three wind octet works each of which features a different accompanying solo instrument: horn, harpsichord, and bass clarinet. Masquerade's dominant flavour is of clean, resonant virtuosity that brings old and newer styles together in a colourful marriage.

What the critics say:

"Masquerade showcases an invigorating and witty trio of Canadian 20th-century pieces which aren't always what they seem...The result is more delight than deception and far more than merely listenable contemporary chamber treats." - Pauline Durichen, Kitchener-Waterloo Record

"This is a delightful collection of Canadian chamber concertos - neither frivolous nor too serious...a disc of wide appeal - and the kind that gives modern music a good name." - Stephen Ellis, Fanfare

"The performances are bright and cheery and the recorded sound is excellent. The idea that it's modern music could almost sneak up on an unwary listener." - Alan Gasser, Classical Music Magazine

MALCOLM FORSYTH

1-4. Fanfare and Three Masquerades

R. MURRAY SCHAFER

5-7. Concerto for Harpsichord and Eight Wind Instruments *

GARY KULESHA

8-10. Third Chamber Concerto **

* This work was nominated for a
1989 JUNO: Best Classical Composition.